METHODOLOGY
How XC Ski Labs rates races.
Every race profile is scored by hand against the same 14 dimensions.
Overview
Ratings are a consistent way to compare cross-country ski races. Each profile is reviewed and scored by hand. The score is then calculated from the dimensions below; no separate cultural-impact bonus is added.
Tier system
| Tier | Score range | Example |
|---|---|---|
| TIER 1 | 80–100 | Birkebeinerrennet (90) |
| TIER 2 | 60–79 | 3 Zinnen Ski-Marathon (71) |
| TIER 3 | 45–59 | 7-Mila (51) |
| TIER 4 | 0–44 | Attraverso Campra (41) |
Rated dimensions
Each dimension is rated from 1 to 5. The groups below organize the criteria for reading; the calculation gives every listed dimension equal weight.
Race profile
- Distance. The scale of the event’s course distance.
- Elevation. The amount and character of climbing on the course.
- Altitude. The effect of the event’s elevation above sea level.
- Field Size. The size of the participant field.
Standing
- Prestige. The event’s standing and historical significance in the sport.
- International Draw. The extent to which the race attracts skiers from outside its home region.
- Competitive Depth. The strength and depth of the competitive field.
Course and conditions
- Course Technicality. The technical demands of the course and skiing.
- Snow Reliability. The likelihood of dependable snow conditions.
- Grooming Quality. The quality and consistency of course preparation.
- Accessibility. How practical the event is to reach and take part in.
Race-day experience
- Community. The community and participant atmosphere around the event.
- Scenery. The quality of the landscape and setting along the course.
- Organization. The quality of event operations and logistics.
Scoring formula
The overall score is round((sum of 14 dimension scores / 70) × 100).
Vasaloppet. Its 14 dimension scores total 61. The calculation is round((61 / 70) × 100) = 87. Its stored profile score is 87 and its tier is TIER 1.
Prestige overrides
A prestige score of 5 places a race in TIER 1 when its overall score is at least 75; otherwise it cannot fall below TIER 2. A prestige score of 4 can promote a race by one tier, but never into TIER 1.
FAQ
Who rates the races?
XC Ski Labs reviews and scores every profile by hand.
How often are ratings updated?
Ratings are updated when material race information or the scoring record changes.
Can organizers pay for a rating?
No. Organizers cannot pay for a rating or a tier.